High-level committee to probe Mardan church incident: Iftikhar

PESHAWAR - Khyber Pakthunkhwa Minister for Information and Public Relations, Mian Iftikhar Hussain has said that a high level committee has been formed to investigate the attack on Paul Lutheran Church in Mardan.Talking to reporters during his visit to the damaged Church in Mardan, the Information Minister said a ‘third hand’ is involved in incidents of ransacking, firing and burning of government and private properties and also attack on Mardan church. He said some elements during protest demonstrations against anti-Islam film disappeared from the scene after instigating people. Terming incident of church as a planned attack, the minister said it would be thoroughly probed with every angle and the responsible would be given exemplary punishment.He said the incidents of ransacking, firing and burning of government and private properties during protest demonstrations was against the teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).He said the miscreants through such gory act have tried to defame the country and tried to give wrong message to world that minorities are not safe here. He said the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) had always preached for peace, tolerance and respect to other religions. He said minorities in Pakistan enjoy complete religious freedom. He assured the Christians for restoring water and electricity in the said church within two days on the directives of Chief Minister KP and efforts would be made to avoid such incidents in future. He said a PC-I would be prepared for construction of the said curch after which construction work will be formally started.The minister said Chief Minister Khyber Pakthunkhwa would also pay visit to the church. He said the government has announced public holiday on Friday and appealed the nation to observe protests peacefully.